PREVIEW: BELLE VUE v BERWICK (NDL)

BELLE Vue kick off the Good Friday schedule with their National Development League opener against Berwick at the NSS (1pm).

Both teams have made several changes over the winter, with club asset James Pearson joining skipper Jack Smith to spearhead the Colts’ side.

Meanwhile the Bullets track three former Belle Vue riders in Connor Coles, Danny Phillips and Archie Freeman, the latter having ridden for the Colts last year.

Pearson said: “It’s just awesome to finally be racing this track every week. I think we’ve all been excited for this first meeting, and we just can’t wait to get started as a team.

“There are already fantastic vibes amongst the boys. We all know each other and get on very well, and sometimes that’s half the battle so hopefully good results will follow.

“And for me, having more time in the National Development League should help me in the Championship and vice versa, and in turn will be good for my Polish league racing too.”

Freeman said: “Belle Vue is seen around the world as one of the best speedway racetracks, and I really enjoyed my season with them last year.

“But the opportunity to join Berwick was a real no-brainer. There’s a really good mix of experience and potential in the team and this is going to be a really good opportunity to get the season off to a flying start.”

BELLE VUE: Jack Smith, Luke Muff, Sam Hagon, Matt Marson, James Pearson, Paul Bowen, Freddy Hodder.
BERWICK: Connor Coles, Archie Freeman, Mason Watson, Danny Phillips, Greg Blair, Josh Embleton, Jamie Halder.

Photo credit: IAN CHARLES